Court Advocacy Unit

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The Court Advocacy Unit is available to current volunteers who have completed training in the Protective Order Unit. if interested, applicants should apply to our Protective Order Unit.

The Court Advocacy Unit is the foundation of the program. Created in 1985, its objectives is to provide comprehensive services to crime victims involved in the criminal justice system through the prosecution of the offender(s). The unit provides services to victims whether or not they are involved with the prosecution of an offender.

Victim Services is a work division of the Lane County District Attorney's Office. Advocates work with clients who are named victims from a defendant's criminal case. Advocates identify and directly contact crime victims, either by telephone or letter. Services are then provided in accordance with the desires of the victim, and may include any or all of the following:

Advising victims of the status of the case
Providing accurate information and education about the criminal justice process
Accompanying victims to court hearings
Referring victims to community resources, such as legal services, mental or physical health treatment, clothing and financial assistance
Advocating within the criminal justice system
Assisting with the application, when appropriate, for Crime Victims' Compensation benefits
Providing emotional support

The program provides services to victims of all crimes, ranging from the least serious misdemeanor to those felonies that could result in the death penalty. Advocates may be involved with a victim years after the criminal case has been completed, continuing to provide services and information.

Court Advocacy volunteers will work in the Victim Services Office between 8am and 5pm. A minimum commitment of 8 hours per week, for one year is required. Additional hours may be required at the time of trial.

** Victim Services collects applications on a rolling basis. Please note we may or may not have a training scheduled.**